Cole Secures Key Commitments

WASHINGTON, D.C.-U.S. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-4) today secured two commitments critical to the Lawton, Fort Sill and Elgin communities. In a House Armed Services Committee (HASC) hearing on the FY 08 Army budget request, Congressman Cole reiterated his concerns about BRAC funding and the status of the Future Combat Systems Non Line of Sight Cannon (NLOS-C). In response to these questions, HASC Chairman Ike Skelton (D-MO) reassured Congressman Cole that BRAC will be fully addressed in a supplemental spending bill. Similarly, Army Secretary Francis Harvey also assured Cole that the Army remains committed to the NLOS-C.

"These two issues are very high priorities for me. They are important to our national security and the well being of the men and women of the armed forces," Congressman Cole said . "I appreciate Secretary Harvey's ongoing commitment to making sure the NLOS-C continues to move forward. This is an important component of the Future Combat System as well as a significant economic impact to Elgin."

"I also appreciate Chairman Skelton's recognition of the critical importance of fully funding BRAC. However, I remain deeply concerned about the time frame in which the majority party intends to address this matter," Cole continued. " For the sake of the men and women of the armed services, BRAC needs to be funded as expeditiously as possible. I will continue to work with Chairman Skelton to see that this happens."

###